LISTENING REQUIRES your attention and some intention just like meditation. But you don't want to be too intense about your intentions because then your own efforts will capture your attention and distract you. Gentle intention is what you need. Just have the gentle intention to listen, to help, to give attention, and if you find your attention has wandered, gently bring your attention back. And if you've drifted into telling your story — if you've drifted away from your intention to help, gently bring your attention back.

It is loving service. It is a calming meditation, it is a path of unending personal growth.